Tampa Bay Takes Advantage Of The Disoriented Anaheim Ducks

The Anaheim Ducks looked nonexistent tonight. But it happens every now and then.

They were on the second leg of a back-to-back, so signs of fatigue were warranted.

Tampa Bay, meanwhile, had the night off the day before as they are in the midst of a four-game homestand.

This is what I love more than I hate about hockey: there is no such thing as underdogs.

Sure there will always be favorites made but one little event in a hockey game can completely change the outcome.

These are the kinds of games that are frustrating because you know they are capable of playing at a high level.

The Lightning outshot the Ducks, 37-16, and got the job done in the shoot-out.

3. 23. 2. 105. Final

Before we delve into the ugly, let’s start with a nice appetizer.

Rookie defenseman Brandon Montour scored his first NHL goal tonight in only his sixth big league game. And he really needed this goal for one reason.

Montour was scratched in the game versus the Panthers and with the trade deadline looming, he had to give the Ducks a reason to keep him.

He’s is one of our best rearguard prospects and there is no doubt he is one of the pieces being shopped right now.

We have to deal a smidgen of our strength to address our weakness (top-6 winger).

It’s been a long time since Murray has ever made a big splash during the trade deadline and it does not make sense to not pull the trigger this year.

Never knew this ever existed but there is this amazing hidden rule that was exposed tonight.

NFL replacement refs were a thing and we might has just witnessed history with replacement players disguised in Anaheim Ducks sweaters.

Anaheim made their own zone a permanent potty break spot, as they could not keep up with the Lightning.

Three hooking infractions assessed was evidence of that.

Also, they were outshot 15-4 in the middle frame, registering their first shot on goal with just 1:32 remaining in the second period.

This incredible streak was going to end eventually. No one is perfect.

The Ducks have allowed a power play goal for the first time since January 17, ending the streak of 20 consecutive penalty kills.

It does not change the fact that they are a good defensive team.